COMM 105 (Speech) Proficiency Examination

This test will take approximately two hours. You must arrange this two-hour block
of time with the COMM Lead Instructor, Libby McGlone (office: NH 499/phone: 287-3659)
at least two weeks before you plan to take the test.

There is a $50 test fee, which must be paid in the college Business Office prior to
taking the test. Bring your receipt with you.

The proficiency test consists of four parts: the delivery of a prepared speech, a
typed full sentence preparation outline, a written analysis/critique of a videotaped
speech, and an objective test. To receive proficiency credit for COMM 105, your performance
must be rated “B” (80%) or better on each part of the test.

Part One:You will take an objective test that evaluates your knowledge of basic communication
and public speaking theory.

Part Two: Submit a typed full sentence preparation outline of your speech along with
a works cited using MLA style.

Part Three: You will research, prepare, and deliver a 5 to10 minute informative speech
or persuasive speech on a topic of your choice; submit before you speak, a full-preparation (sentence) outline with bibliography; incorporate at least one visual aid (i.e., chart, graph, overhead transparency,
slides, object, model, etc.); and deliver the speech with minimal use of key-word
note cards, maximum eye contact, natural and expressive voice gestures.

Attached is a checklist of the specific traits expected of your speech’s content,
organization, and delivery; also included is a list of standards used in COMM 105
for “C,” “B,” and “A” speeches.

Part Four: You will view a 5 to 10 minute videotaped speech and complete an analysis
sheet. You will be allowed up to one hour to complete this part of the proficiency
test.

In this written test, you will be expected to not only evaluate the quality of various
aspects of the videotaped speech, but also cite specific examples from the speech
to support your judgments.

Communication Skills Department Rubric

BODY LANGUAGE SKILLS (25%)

maintain eye contact with audience, not with the camera

greet audience with eye contact

use notes minimally (limit the number of words on a note card to approximately 10
words per minute of speech)

begin with an effective introductiondo not start with specific purpose statementgain audience attention and interest at start of speechrelate topic to audienceestablish your credibilitystate central idea as one full sentenceend intro with a clear preview-one that emphasizes your organization

move to an effective body of your speech

employ a logical and recognizable pattern of organization for body of the speech

make your main points clear

focus content clearly on your central idea/preview

use full-sentence transitionsbetween intro and body of speech

between main-point discussions

between each section of Monroe’s

use full sentence main points

use parallel main points

use guideposts to emphasize organization within main-point discussions, etc.

end your speech with an effective conclusioncue that your speech is about to end (“In conclusion,” “To sum up.” etc.)review your main pointsreinforce central ideaend speech vividly/memorably